Posted by Jonathan Labaree on January 31, 2003 at 16:32:45 from 207.5.234.19 user JLabaree.
In Reply to: Skylark posted by Mike Field. on January 31, 2003 at 09:05:09:
Mike, thanks so much for your commentary and insights into these two boats. It would indeed be wonderful to see more Skylarks around. The clinker hull, the sweeping sheer, the traditional lugsail - I could go on and on. If I didn't have a child on the way and a few other projects in mind (the two are connected, not surprisingly), I might very well order the plans and take a crack at that boat. Maybe in a few years....
Having sailed in small boats without centerboards (and in one case, without a rudder), I would definitely recommend a boat with a centerboard to anyone considering building or buying a small dinghy. While that may not be true to Swallow, it does make life a lot easier, reduces frustration and, hence, increases fun. The Swallows are very loyal to their ship, but you can sense some centerboard-envy at times.
Gosh, it’s fun to dream about boats in the middle of winter!